Learn the 6 Tactics Cybersecurity Service Companies Use to Create a Robust Line of Cloud Defenses
As more businesses migrate to cloud platforms, cyberthreat risks continue to grow and evolve. Although cloud environments are known for their flexibility, scalability, and cost-effectiveness, they also present new security challenges that require a thoughtful and multi-faceted approach.
After examining what cloud security is and the different types of cloud environments, we’ll highlight the leading tools that help keep your infrastructure safe. Whether you’re a startup or looking to improve your existing defenses, partnering with an IT company that offers affordable cybersecurity service options can help you build a stronger, more resilient digital environment.
What Is Cloud Security?
Cloud security refers to the policies, procedures, technologies, and controls used to protect cloud-based systems, data, and infrastructure. Its main goals are to:
- Protect data from unauthorized access, breaches, and loss.
- Secure applications and workloads running in the cloud.
- Ensure compliance with industry regulations and standards.
- Support business continuity and disaster recovery.
Securing cloud environments is different from securing traditional on-site systems because it often involves shared responsibility between you and your cloud provider. Understanding your role in this shared model is critical to protecting your organization.
There are four primary types of cloud environments:
- Public cloud: A public cloud is managed by a third-party provider and shared with other organizations. Examples include Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud Platform. Public clouds are scalable and cost-effective, but require strong security controls.
- Private cloud: A private cloud is exclusively used by a single organization. It offers greater control and customization, but usually comes with higher costs and management responsibilities.
- Hybrid cloud: A hybrid cloud combines elements of public and private clouds. Organizations can keep sensitive data in a private cloud, while leveraging the public cloud for less critical workloads.
- Multi-cloud: Multi-cloud refers to using services from multiple cloud providers at once. It helps avoid vendor lock-in and provides redundancy, but managing security across multiple environments can be complex.
Key Tools for Cloud Security
Effective cloud security involves many types of protection to address different risks. Here are the main tools businesses use.
Cloud Workload Protection Platforms (CWPP)
CWPPs secure workloads like applications, virtual machines, and software packages across different cloud environments. They provide consistent protection regardless of where the workload is running.
Key CWPP capabilities include:
- Malware detection.
- Vulnerability management.
- Threat intelligence.
- Runtime protection for containers and virtual machines.
A cybersecurity services company often recommends CWPPs for businesses operating in hybrid or multi-cloud environments, ensuring that workloads always remain secure.
Cloud Security Posture Management (CSPM)
CSPM solutions help maintain a secure IT environment by continuously monitoring cloud infrastructure for misconfigurations and compliance risks.
Key CSPM capabilities include:
- Identifying configuration errors.
- Enforcing best practices.
- Supporting regulatory compliance.
If you’re looking for affordable cybersecurity services that strengthen your cloud defenses, CSPM is a smart starting point because it automates security checks and reduces human error.
Cloud Infrastructure Entitlement Management (CIEM)
CIEM focuses on managing profiles and their access privileges in cloud environments. This cybersecurity service prevents unauthorized access and limits the potential damage that can occur if credentials are compromised.
Key CIEM capabilities include:
- Least privilege enforcement.
- Detecting excessive permissions.
- Monitoring user activities.
Working with a cybersecurity services company that understands CIEM can help prevent costly breaches caused by insider threats or compromised accounts.
Application Security Posture Management (ASPM)
ASPM solutions manage and improve the security of cloud-based applications, ensuring that they are properly maintained and resilient to cyberthreats.
Key ASPM capabilities include:
- Identifying vulnerabilities in application code.
- Managing risks during development.
- Monitoring APIs and web services.
Application security protects customer data and maintains trust. Adding ASPM to your cloud security strategy can significantly reduce your overall risk.
Data Security Posture Management (DSPM)
DSPM helps organizations locate, classify, and protect sensitive data stored in cloud environments. It ensures that data is properly encrypted, accessed only by authorized users, and not exposed to unnecessary risk.
Key DSPM capabilities include:
- Data discovery and classification.
- Access controls and encryption management.
- Risk assessment and mitigation.
Given the increasing number of data privacy regulations, using DSPM tools supported by an affordable cybersecurity service is becoming a standard practice for businesses of all sizes.
Cloud Detection and Response (CDR)
CDR solutions provide real-time monitoring and threat detection across cloud environments. They proactively identify unusual activities and promptly respond to potential attacks.
Key CDR capabilities include:
- Threat hunting and investigation.
- Automated incident response.
- Behavior analytics.
Without CDR, threats can go undetected for months. With CDR in place, businesses gain the ability to detect threats early and respond before damage occurs.
How to Get Started with Cloud Security
Choosing the right mix of tools and strategies can be overwhelming, especially if your business is new to cloud environments. The best way to get started is by partnering with a trusted cybersecurity services company that understands the complexities of cloud security.
An experienced provider will:
- Assess your current cloud infrastructure.
- Identify gaps and vulnerabilities.
- Recommend tailored solutions like CWPP, CSPM, or DSPM.
- Offer ongoing monitoring and support.
- Provide an affordable cybersecurity service plan that fits your budget.
By working with an established cybersecurity services company, you ensure that your cloud environment is protected against evolving threats without having to build an in-house cybersecurity team from scratch.
If you’re ready to strengthen your cloud security and need an affordable cybersecurity service tailored to your needs, contact Kansas City Managed IT to schedule a discovery session where we’ll discuss your IT goals.